Inspirational Locals

After writing, “Get Some Sand in Your Shorts” last month. I decided I was going to write an article each month on an exceptional person. A couple of weeks ago, in the middle of my 20 mile training run I was trying to decide who I was going to do my article on and where was I going to come up with an exceptional person? I run with a group of people from the Cowlitz Valley Runners Club. As I am running the loop at Willow Grove, I look over at my running partner and there I found this month’s story.

I actually run with three amazing guys but this month I want to tell you about Duane Higby. Duane is more than exceptional. Duane is 72 years old and is still running marathons. Duane should be an inspiration to all of us.

When I first asked Duane about doing an article on him he said, “Normally, I wouldn’t; I don’t like being in the limelight.” Duane is a very quiet man without much to say, so when it came to getting information from Duane, I had to poke and prod a little.

Duane was born in 1937 and his parents Joseph and Esther Higby moved here in 1942. Duane’s father worked in the woods for Weyerhaeuser until he retired. Duane is a graduate of Kelso High School. He spent four years as a Naval air electronics technician. A technician fixes and repairs communication gear and radar on aircraft carriers. Duane said didn’t serve in a war. His service was between Korea and Vietnam.

After the war Duane was working for the mills in town and needed a profession. He applied for a pipe fitter position and was hired. Duane is still a member of the Pipe Fitter’s Union. He said he still likes to go out on jobs, “But only the good ones.” Duane did not go out this summer, he has been remodeling his kitchen.

Duane met his wife Jan at an apartment complex in Kelso. They have two children Mikalla and Joseph. Duane’s entire family is very active. Duane’s son is a triathalete and his wife is also training for the Portland Marathon this year.

I asked him why he started running.

“Back in 1972 I got in a motorcycle accident up in the woods. I was bored and needed something to do. I’ve been running ever since”.

He said his first race ever was the first Harvest Classic Run held in Longview. The Harvest Classic is now run in Kelso and is coming up in early October. (See article on page 7)

Duane’s first marathon was in 1994 and was the Portland Marathon. His daughter was in college at the time and came to Duane and said, “Hey Dad, you better get ready, we’re going to run the Portland Marathon.“

Mikalla brought three or four kids home with her and they all did the marathon!!

Duane is currently training for the Portland Marathon. This year is Duane’s fifth Portland Marathon. Last year there were 24 participants in the Portland Marathon in Duane’s age group. Duane finished second in his age class with a time of 4:34:10. In addition to the Portland Marathon, Duane has ran the Boston Marathon three times and says he plans on running it again. In order for someone to run the Boston Marathon they have to pre-qualify. Prequalification time depends on your age.

Duane says a healthy diet and staying active helps him to maintain his vitality. Duane is a firm believer in the power of getting the appropriate amount of vitamins and minerals in your diet.

According to the National Institute of Health here are “8 Great “Whys” a Senior Should Exercise”

Older people may become sick or disabled more often from not exercising, so stay active and exercising regularly can:

• Improve mood and relieve depression
• Help prevent or delay many diseases and disabilities, including some types of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes
• Improve health in the frail or those with diseases that accompany aging
• Increase strength – carry groceries, climb stairs
• Improve balance – prevent falls
• Restore flexibility – speed recovery from injury
• Build endurance – walk farther, dance longer
• Improve quality of life

Of course you should always check with your physician before starting any exercising routine.

All in all, Duane is an inspiration. I look forward to writing next month’s article on an inspirational local. If you have suggestions, please call me at the office #360-414-1246 x1.

I look forward to hearing your suggestions on the next month’s Inspirational Local!